Free Training • AMCA Certification Pathway

Mental Health Technician Training in Missouri

51%

2,200+
Job Openings
$40K
Avg Salary
14%
Job Growth
$0
To Start
Explore MHT in Missouri: Training Certification Jobs Externships

What Mental Health Technicians Do

Mental Health Technicians provide direct patient care in psychiatric and behavioral health settings. You'll work alongside psychiatrists, nurses, and counselors to support patient recovery.

Patient Safety

Monitor patients, conduct safety checks, de-escalate crisis situations, and maintain secure environments.

Direct Care

Assist with daily living activities, facilitate group sessions, and support therapeutic activities.

Documentation

Record behavioral observations, track treatment progress, and communicate with clinical teams.

Who You'll Help in Missouri

Mental Health Technicians serve diverse populations facing behavioral health challenges across Missouri.

Drug overdose is the #1 leading cause of death among adults aged 18-44 in Missouri. More than 70% of all drug overdose deaths involve opioids.

#1 Cause of Death (18-44)

Missouri drug overdose deaths decreased 26% in 2024-the most significant decline ever recorded. Deaths dropped from 1,948 in 2023 to 1,450 in 2024, the lowest since 2017.

26% Overdose Death Decline

Missouri's statewide naloxone hub doubled purchase and distribution efforts in FY2025. 63% of 2024 overdose deaths involved an opioid-a 10% decrease from 2023.

Naloxone Distribution Doubled

Fentanyl is showing up in methamphetamine, cocaine, and is suspected in vape and THC products. 1-in-3 adult overdose deaths involved both opioids and stimulants.

Fentanyl in All Drug Types

Missouri Behavioral Health Workforce Demand

Mental health technicians are critically needed across Missouri to address growing behavioral health needs.

2,200+ Open Positions

Current MHT job openings across Missouri healthcare systems and facilities.

$40K Average Salary

Entry-level positions start at 33000, experienced MHTs earn up to 50000.

14% Job Growth

Projected growth rate for behavioral health positions in Missouri.

Where MHTs Work in Missouri

Mental Health Technicians work across various behavioral health settings throughout the state.

4,500+

Truman Medical Centers

(816) 404-1000

Safety-Net Hospital

Yes. EHired offers free MHT training to all Missouri residents. You pay nothing to enroll or complete training. If you choose to pursue AMCA MHT certification, a one-time $650 fee covers your complete certification pathway.

Is Mental Health Technician training really free in Missouri?

Missouri MHTs earn $40K on average. Entry-level positions start around $33K, with experienced MHTs earning $46K-$50K. State hospital positions include benefits and retirement.

How much do Mental Health Technicians make in Missouri?

Strong demand. Missouri has 2,200+ current MHT job openings. With 51% vacancy rates at some state hospitals and drug overdose as the #1 cause of death for ages 18-44, demand continues to grow.

What is the job outlook for MHTs in Missouri?

Missouri MHTs work at DMH state hospitals (Fulton, St. Louis Forensic, Hawthorn Children's, Northwest MO), health systems (BJC, Mercy), private facilities (CenterPointe), Kansas City VA, and community mental health centers.

Where do Mental Health Technicians work in Missouri?

Requirements vary by employer. DMH provides on-the-job training for state positions. However, AMCA MHT certification can improve job prospects and starting pay.

Do I need certification to work as an MHT in Missouri?

Absolutely. Missouri offers excellent advancement through University of Missouri, UMSL, UMKC, Saint Louis University, and Maryville nursing programs. Career ladder: MHT ($40K) > RN Psych ($68K) > PMHNP ($115K).

Can I advance from MHT to higher roles in Missouri?

Missouri DMH operates 6 adult inpatient facilities and Hawthorn Children's Psychiatric. Fulton State Hospital (opened 1851) is the oldest west of the Mississippi. State positions offer 12-hour shifts, benefits, and pension. New Kansas City hospital planned with $300M investment.

What are Missouri's state psychiatric hospitals like?

Psychiatric emergency departments and crisis stabilization units

Barnes-Jewish Psychiatric Emergency, BJC Behavioral Health Crisis Unit

VETERANS

Outpatient Clinics

Community mental health centers and outpatient behavioral health clinics

Burrell Behavioral Health, Places for People

Behavioral Health Career Ladder

MHT is the entry point to a rewarding career in behavioral health. Advance through education and experience.

ENTRY LEVEL

$95K-$140K

$115K
PMHNP

High school diploma + training. Entry into behavioral health.

MID CAREER

$33K-$50K

$40K
Mental Health Technician

ASN/BSN required. Clinical leadership in behavioral health units.

ADVANCED PRACTICE

$58K-$82K

$68K
RN Psychiatric

Master's degree. Prescriptive authority, independent practice.

Missouri offers advancement through University of Missouri, UMSL, UMKC, and Saint Louis University nursing programs.

Top MHT Employers in Missouri

These organizations are actively hiring Mental Health Technicians across Missouri.

Fulton State Hospital

State Psychiatric Hospital

600 E 5th St, Fulton, MO 65251

(573) 592-4100 • 1,200+

St. Louis Forensic Treatment Center

Forensic State Facility

5300 Arsenal St, St. Louis, MO 63139

(314) 877-6700 • 400+

Hawthorn Children's Psychiatric

State Children's Hospital

1901 Pennsylvania Ave, Kansas City, MO 64108

(816) 512-7700 • 300+

Northwest Missouri Psychiatric

State Facility

3505 Frederick Ave, St. Joseph, MO 64506

(816) 387-2300 • 200+

BJC HealthCare

Health System

4901 Forest Park Ave, St. Louis, MO 63108

(314) 286-2000 • 30,000+

Mercy Health

Health System

14528 S Outer 40, Chesterfield, MO 63017

(314) 579-6100 • 10,000+

Missouri MHT Success Stories

Real career journeys from Mental Health Technicians across Missouri.

A

Anthony

Started as MHT at VA St. Louis, advanced to senior technician

"Working with veterans gave me purpose and direction."

Behavioral health program coordinator at VA medical center

M

Michelle

Began at Research Psychiatric Center, pursued counseling degree

"My MHT experience was the spark that ignited my career."

Licensed professional counselor in private practice

R

Robert

Started in substance abuse treatment, moved to dual diagnosis

"The hands-on training prepared me for leadership."

Program director at addiction treatment facility

J

Jasmine

Began at adolescent facility, specialized in youth mental health

"This certification opened doors to a rewarding career helping young people."

Youth services manager at community mental health center

Frequently Asked Questions

Common questions about MHT training in Missouri

Is Mental Health Technician training really free in Missouri?
Yes. EHired offers free MHT training to all Missouri residents. You pay nothing to enroll or complete training. If you choose to pursue AMCA MHT certification, a one-time $650 fee covers your complete certification pathway.
How much do Mental Health Technicians make in Missouri?
Missouri MHTs earn $40K on average. Entry-level positions start around $33K, with experienced MHTs at BJC and state hospitals earning up to $50K with excellent benefits.
What is the job outlook for MHTs in Missouri?
Strong demand. Missouri has 2,200+ current MHT job openings with 14% projected growth. State hospitals and major health systems actively recruiting.
Where do Mental Health Technicians work in Missouri?
Missouri MHTs work at Fulton State Hospital, Northwest Missouri Psychiatric Rehabilitation Center, St. Louis Psychiatric Rehabilitation Center, BJC Healthcare, Mercy, SSM Health, Burrell Behavioral Health, and VA St. Louis.
Do I need certification to work as an MHT in Missouri?
DMH state hospitals hire directly and provide training. AMCA MHT certification improves prospects at BJC, Mercy, and private behavioral health facilities.
Can I advance from MHT to higher roles in Missouri?
Absolutely. Missouri has excellent nursing programs at UMKC, Mizzou, SLU, and Goldfarb. Career ladder: MHT ($40K) > RN Psych ($68K) > PMHNP ($115K).

Explore All Healthcare Training Resources

Find specific resources by program, topic, and state

Important: Mental Health Technician requirements vary by employer and facility type in Missouri. Some positions may require additional certifications, background checks, or state-specific credentials. Always research specific employer requirements before applying.

Start Your MHT Career in Missouri

Free training. No prerequisites. Start today and join the 2,200+ MHT positions available across Missouri.

Training Cost: FREE
Certification (Optional): $650
Average Missouri Salary: $40K
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